Facing the Shadow: Using Expressive Arts to Enhance ACA Group Healing
Facing the Shadow: Using Expressive Arts to Enhance ACA Group Healing
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Issue Date
1988
Authors
Leonard, Susan
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Abstract
Expressive arts therapies are used to enhance the psychodynamic group therapy process for Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACAs). This thesis examines the effectiveness of using various types of art processes in conjunction with verbal therapy sessions. The theoretical portion describes how creativity and the various arts are integral to the main psychological therapies with a particular emphasis on psychodynamic determinism. Issues, roles, and recovery models for ACAs are included here to link the healing needs to the therapy itself. The methodology includes an in-depth description and analysis of eighteen arts processes used in group therapy sessions spanning a nine-month period. In this sample pilot study, there are four women and two men, ages 29 to 56, who are at various stages of ACA recovery. The analysis measures the written and verbal feedback from the group as well as the co-therapists' observations and reactions. The feedback is compared and contrasted with the four main issues that ACAs have difficulty with: self-esteem, trust, intimacy, and expression of feelings. The results show that members used the arts to allow their inhibitions and shadow self to be revealed as feelings began to be openly expressed. The arts inspired the unconscious to become conscious as members shared their new insights directly and honestly. The expressive techniques helped members deepen their experience and expand their sense of who they were. For most, the process was just beginning to unfold as the group ended.